24 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes

John Kernick

Whether you are preparing every course from scratch or hosting a laid-back Thanksgiving potluck, make-ahead recipes are key. Many dishes can be prepared at least a day in advance and simply reheated right before serving. Aim to have everything—from the traditional hors d'oeuvres to the homemade bread to your family's favorite Thanksgiving dessert recipes—done by the time you start preparing our simple turkey recipe.

Sides

Make-ahead recipe: The vinaigrette, green beans, and walnuts can be prepared and refrigerated, separately, up to 1 day in advance. Toss the green beans with the fennel, walnuts, goat cheese, and vinaigrette just before serving.

Spinach and Gruyère Gratin

Make-ahead tip: The gratin can be prepared (but not baked) and refrigerated, covered, up to 1 day in advance. Bring to room temperature, then bake as directed, adding 5 to 10 minutes to the cooking time.

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13 of 24Kate Merker

Spiced Sweet Potato Wedges

Make-ahead tip: The sweet potatoes can be cut and seasoned up to 2 hours before cooking. Or they can be roasted and refrigerated up to 1 day in advance; reheat in oven, from room temperature, at 350° F to 400° F.

Mashed Sour Cream and Scallion Potatoes

Make-ahead tip: The mashed potatoes can be made and left at room temperature up to 2 hours in advance or refrigerated up to 1 day in advance. Reheat in a large saucepan, covered, adding milk as necessary to adjust the consistency.